Clapper, Patti, Schweizer and Mason

Malignant pleural mesothelioma is a rare, aggressive cancer caused by exposure to asbestos.  The median survival rate is between 4 and 12 months, and response to standard treatments has not been very promising.  The incidence of mesothelioma has consistently increased over the last three decades, due to increase knowledge and diagnosis as well as the long latency period between time of exposure and development of diseases.  Over 2,500 cases of mesothelioma are diagnosed each year in the United States alone.

Current treatment modalities have had little effect on prolonging life and there is no known cure.  There are multi levels of impact for patients diagnosed with mesothelioma:

·         Physical

·         Emotional/Psychological

·         Social

·         Spiritual

Physical symptoms of mesothelioma can be very debilitating and exhausting.  These include chest pain, breathlessness, fatigue, weight loss, sleep disturbance, and difficulty eating.  Most patients, as well as loved ones, also experience some degree of sadness, fear, anxiety, overwhelm, and anger.   Social relationships and roles are completely changed when diagnosed with a terminal, incurable illness. 

Overwhelm and fatigue also have a huge impact as mesothelioma often calls for invasive, sometimes painful initial interventions and then frequent treatments to control symptoms.   Some will use the opportunity to strengthen or return to a spiritual orientation to help them come to terms with end of life issues. 

Medical professionals now know a lot more about the science of mesothelioma and are quite good at providing services aimed to relieve physical suffering.  What is needed more is for professionals to also be knowledgeable and considerate of the other levels in which patients are affected, and to connect patients and family members to resources and people who can help to address the other needs.

Palliative care nurses, hospice workers, cancer support groups, and, for those of faith, clergymen and people from places of worship can make a huge difference when going through such a heartbreaking time. 

Although it may be hard to consider in the midst of diagnosis and treatment, getting professional advice from asbestos attorneys can also be extremely helpful.   Mesothelioma lawyers will have information about getting financial compensation to help pay bills and cover costs of living as well as other resources that are specific to this type of cancer.  Easing financial stress is important, and knowing that the the law firm you choose specializes in handling only these types of asbestos cases allows you to trust, relax, and feel supported.